As nicotine pouches increase in popularity, more and more people are having questions about what it is and how to use them. So, we have created what we call a Super Guide to Nicotine pouches. Here we have collected the most common questions in one big article. Hope this will give you some answers.
Table of contents
- What is a nicotine pouch?
- The history of the nicotine pouch
- How do you use a nicotine pouch?
- Who are using nicotine pouches?
- What are the advantages of nicotine pouches?
- Which are the top Scandinavian nicotine pouch brands?
- Are nicotine pouches bad for your health?
- What are the side-effects of Nicotine pouches?
What is a nicotine pouch?
A nicotine pouch is a type of smokeless, spitless tobacco-free product designed to deliver nicotine without the need for combustion. Unlike traditional chewing tobacco or snus, nicotine pouches do not contain any tobacco leaf or stem. Instead, they contain nicotine extracted from the tobacco plant, which is then mixed with other ingredients to create the pouch.
Besides the crystallized nicotine, these pouches often contain a mixture of plant-based fibers, flavorings, and fillers to give structure and taste.
The history of the nicotine pouch
The concept of a tobacco-free, nicotine-containing pouch is a natural evolution from traditional snus. Nicotine pouches are a relatively recent development in the realm of nicotine products, but their origins can be traced back to the longstanding tradition of snus in Sweden.
Here's a brief history and origin of nicotine pouches:
Snus Origins
Snus, a moist powder tobacco product originating from a variant of dry snuff in the early 18th-century in Sweden, is consumed by placing it under the upper lip. It became widely popular in the country and remains so to this day. Unlike other smokeless tobacco products commonly used in other countries, snus is steam-pasteurized rather than fermented, which leads to a slightly different flavor and chemical profile.
Development of Nicotine Pouches
In the 2010s, manufacturers began producing and marketing nicotine pouches as a modern, cleaner alternative to traditional snus. These products provided the nicotine experience derived from tobacco but without the actual tobacco leaf, stem, or other parts.
Global Spread
Recognizing the global trend away from combustible tobacco products and the success of e-cigarettes, major tobacco companies began producing and marketing nicotine pouches in various regions, taking cues from the Swedish model. They became especially popular in regions with strict regulations on e-cigarettes or where there was a demand for discreet, smokeless, and spitless nicotine products.
Modern Marketing and Expansion
Today, nicotine pouches are produced by a variety of manufacturers, from big tobacco companies to smaller independent brands. They are available in a wide range of flavors and nicotine strengths and are marketed as a modern and discreet way to consume nicotine.
Here are some more facts about Nicotine Pouches at Wikipedia
How do you use a nicotine pouch?
Using a nicotine pouch is relatively straightforward, but if you're new to the product, here's a step-by-step guide:
- Select a Pouch. Start by choosing the desired strength and flavor of the nicotine pouch. They come in various strengths and flavors, so if you're new, you might want to begin with a lower strength. Here you can see all nicotine pouches currently available at Nico&Pouch. Use the filters to select strength and flavors and find your perfect pouch. Please also read our Strength guide.
- Wash Your Hands. It's always a good idea to have clean hands before handling anything that goes into your mouth.
- Open the can and take out a Pouch.
- Place the Pouch: Position the pouch between your upper lip and gum. It should fit snugly and comfortably. Do not chew or swallow the pouch. The nicotine and flavors will release gradually over time. Pouches with moist usually have a quicker flavor and nicotine release.
- Enjoy: Once the pouch is in place, you can go about your day. You'll begin to feel the effects of the nicotine and taste the flavors shortly after placing it.
- Duration: You can keep the pouch in for anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour, depending on your preference and the product's strength. Some people remove the pouch once they stop feeling the effects, while others might keep it in for a set duration.
- Remove and Dispose: When you're done, remove the pouch from your mouth. It's important not to swallow the pouch. Use a tissue or your fingers to remove it and dispose of it in the trash. Most cans come with a compartment for used pouches, which can be useful if you're on the go and can't find a trash can immediately.
- Wash Your Hands Again: After handling the used pouch, it's a good idea to wash your hands.
Nicotine strengths
Strengths and gradations vary a bit between manufacturers. The most common ways to describe the strength is through nicotine mg/gram or nicotine mg/pouch. As a pouch’s weight can vary it can sometimes be a bit tricky to compare different pouches.
However, most brands use five different strength levels. These are often shown as dots on the package. The 5 step gradation is also what we use to categorize our products into different strengths.
Nicotine is the single biggest factor that affects the strength. However, some flavors can enhance or soften the perceived strength. For example, spicy flavors or strong mint flavors can make the pouch feel a bit stronger than it actually is, while the opposite can be true for some fruity flavors.
How we categorize the strengths
Most brands use a scale from 1 to 5 where 1 is the lowest strength and 5 the stronges. However, Velo for instance use six dots on their super and ultra storng pouches. We use the 1-5 scael and categorize all strengths above Extra Strong as Super Strong – this includes Hyper and Ultra strong variants that some brands might have.
Who are using nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches have gained popularity among various groups of people for different reasons. Here are some demographics and reasons for using nicotine pouches:
- Existing Nicotine or Tobacco Users: Many people who already use nicotine products, like cigarettes, cigars, or snus, might switch to nicotine pouches as a perceived safer or more discreet alternative. They may see pouches as a step towards quitting tobacco entirely or as a way to consume nicotine in places where smoking is prohibited.
- Young Adults: With the rise in vaping and e-cigarettes among young adults in previous years, nicotine pouches have also found a market in this demographic. They're discreet, come in various flavors, and are seen as a trendy alternative to traditional tobacco products.
- People in Smoke-Free Zones: Since nicotine pouches are smokeless and spitless, they're convenient for use in places where smoking or vaping is not allowed, such as certain indoor areas or public places.
- Those Seeking Tobacco Alternatives: Some users choose nicotine pouches as a step in their journey to quit tobacco or nicotine altogether. They might see pouches as a transitional product, especially if they're seeking to avoid the harmful byproducts of combustion found in cigarettes.
- People in Countries with Stringent Tobacco Regulations: In countries or regions with strict regulations on traditional tobacco products or vaping, nicotine pouches might become popular if they're not subject to the same restrictions.
- Travelers or Frequent Flyers: For those who travel often, nicotine pouches can offer a way to consume nicotine during flights or in locations where smoking or vaping might be challenging.
What are the advantages of nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches have been marketed and adopted by many due to several perceived advantages compared to traditional tobacco products. Some of these advantages include:
- Tobacco-Free: Nicotine pouches deliver nicotine without the use of tobacco leaf or stem, which means users can avoid the potential harms of tobacco-specific nitrosamines and other harmful chemicals present in tobacco.
- Smokeless: As a non-combustible product, nicotine pouches don't produce smoke. This eliminates the risks associated with secondhand smoke exposure to others and can reduce the health risks linked to smoking.
- Discreet: Due to their smokeless and odorless nature, nicotine pouches can be used discreetly in places where smoking or even vaping might be frowned upon or banned.
- No Need to Spit: Unlike some smokeless tobacco products (like chew or some forms of snus), nicotine pouches don't produce saliva that needs to be spat out, making them more discreet and socially acceptable in many situations.
- Variety of Flavors: Nicotine pouches are available in a range of flavors, which can be appealing to users looking for a flavorful nicotine experience without smoking.
- Different Strengths: They come in various nicotine strengths, allowing users to choose the appropriate level for their preferences or needs.
- Potential for Harm Reduction: For smokers who are unable or unwilling to quit nicotine entirely, switching to nicotine pouches might present a less harmful alternative. However, it's essential to understand that while they may be less harmful than smoking, nicotine pouches are not entirely risk-free.
- Portability: Their small and compact packaging makes them easy to carry around, similar to a pack of gum.
- Less Environmental Impact: Unlike cigarette butts, which are a significant environmental pollutant, nicotine pouches produce less waste. However, the packaging and the pouches themselves should still be disposed of responsibly.
- No Staining: Unlike cigarettes, nicotine pouches don't stain teeth or fingers
Which are the top Scandinavian nicotine pouch brands?
 |
ZYNManufactured by Swedish Match, ZYN was one of the pioneers in the nicotine pouch market and is available in various flavors and strengths. Shop Zyn |
 |
VELOVelo (previously known as LYFT) are manufactured by British American Tobacco in Sweden, is available in multiple markets and offers a variety of flavors. It was previously known as LYFT before a rebranding.
|
 |
SkrufSkruf has been a name in the snus industry for a while, and they also have their line of nicotine pouches called Super White. (in Swedish) |
 |
LoopLoop is a relatively new brand on the market. But have quickly gained popularity for their new flavor combinations and long flavor release. They are manufactured by Another Snus Factory. |
These brands, among others, offer a wide variety of flavors, from mint and citrus to berry and coffee, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
Are nicotine pouches bad for your health?
Nicotine pouches are a relatively new product, and long-term health studies are still ongoing. However, there are a few points to consider when discussing their potential health implications:
- Nicotine: Nicotine pouches contain nicotine, which is an addictive substance. While nicotine itself is not the primary cause of cancer in tobacco products, it does have potential health risks. It can raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, and may have negative effects on the cardiovascular system.
- Oral Health Concerns: While nicotine pouches are tobacco-free, placing any foreign substance in the mouth for extended periods may have implications for oral health. Some users report gum irritation or inflammation after using these products. The effects of long-term use on oral health are not fully understood yet.
- Addiction: Since nicotine pouches deliver nicotine, there's a risk of addiction or dependence. Users might find themselves consuming more pouches over time or having difficulty stopping their use.
- Chemicals and Fillers: Beyond nicotine, these pouches also contain other ingredients, such as flavorings, fillers, and stabilizers. The long-term health effects of these ingredients, especially when placed in the oral cavity, are not yet fully understood.
- Safer ≠ Safe: While nicotine pouches might be presented as a safer alternative to combustible tobacco products, "safer" does not mean "safe." It's essential to understand that reduced risk doesn't equate to no risk.
- Ingestion Risk: There's a risk associated with accidental ingestion, especially among children or pets. The packaging and pouches should be kept out of reach.
- Potential for Harm Reduction: For individuals who are currently smoking cigarettes, switching entirely to nicotine pouches may reduce harm, as they avoid the harmful byproducts of tobacco combustion. However, the best option for health is to quit nicotine and tobacco products altogether.
- Gateway Concern: There's a concern that nicotine pouches might serve as a gateway for non-users, especially young adults and teens, introducing them to nicotine and potentially leading to the use of more harmful nicotine or tobacco products
If you are pregnant, or planning to become, please read our guide where we compare Nicotine Pouches vs Smoking during pregnancy and the guide about breastfeeding and nicotine pouches
What are the side-effects of Nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches deliver nicotine without the use of tobacco leaf or stem, but they still carry potential side effects due to the presence of nicotine and other ingredients. Here are some side effects that users may experience:
- Addiction: Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Regular use can lead to dependence, leading users to consume more over time or find it challenging to stop.
- Gum or Mouth Irritation: Placing nicotine pouches in the mouth can lead to irritation or inflammation of the gums, mouth, or throat.
- Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: Nicotine can stimulate the heart and raise blood pressure, which may pose risks for individuals with heart conditions.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially common in new users or those using higher-strength pouches.
- Nausea or Upset Stomach: Consuming too much nicotine at once can lead to feelings of nausea or an upset stomach.
- Headaches: Some users report headaches after using nicotine products.
- Salivation: Although nicotine pouches are designed to be spit-free, some users might experience increased salivation.
- Sleep Disturbances: Nicotine is a stimulant, which can lead to difficulty sleeping or unusual dreams.
- Tingling Sensation: Some users report a tingling sensation in the mouth or on the lips when using the pouches.
- Allergic Reactions: Rarely, individuals might have an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the pouch.
- Accidental Ingestion: Particularly a concern with children or pets, who might mistake the pouches for candy or gum.
It's essential to recognize that individuals can react differently, and not everyone will experience these side effects. Moreover, long-term effects are not yet fully understood since nicotine pouches are a relatively new product. If you or someone you know is considering using nicotine pouches or is experiencing adverse effects, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended.
Remember, even though nicotine pouches are tobacco-free, they still contain nicotine, which is addictive. Always use them responsibly and be aware of the dosage, especially if you're new to nicotine products. If you're trying to quit smoking or using other tobacco products, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.
